Home > Trees And Lines > Planting Near Electricity Lines

Planting Near Electricity Lines

Plant wisely to prevent problems.

To avoid the risk and future costs of trees growing too close to electricity lines, it makes good sense to choose trees carefully before planting. The trees listed below are generally suitable for planting under or near electricity lines as they are least likely to grow high or wide enough to cause problems with the lines. For a list of suitable trees for planting under or near electricity lines see our planting guide below.

For advice on native species most suitable to your region or habitat contact your local regional council. Contact the Hawke's Bay Regional Council on 06 835 9200.
 

            
            Click on the links below for more information

            • Native Plants 

            • Exotic Plants

Planting Guide

If you plan to plant a tree anywhere near power lines, please chose your tree carefully. Trees must be kept clear of network power lines, as required be the Electricity (hazards from trees) Regulations 2003. Under these regulations, tree owners are responsible for the costs of keeping trees trimmed and outside the growth limit zones near network power lines. Tree owners may face penalties for failing to keep trees clear of lines and may be responsible for the cost of damage a tree causes to power lines or equipment.
  
For further advice on native species most suitable to your region or habitat contact your local Regional Council. You can contact the Hawke's Bay Regional Council on 06 835 9200.
 
For more information about the regulations and your responsibilities as a tree owner, please visit www.energysafety.govt.nz and remember, before planting a tree, look up and look out for power lines.